Can You Wear Suede Sneakers in Rain? Myth vs Fact
By Diemme Footwear - Official Online Store | Published: 2026-10-27
Category: Product Reviews
Suede sneakers and rain don't have to be enemies. Learn the truth about water damage, how Diemme's Italian craftsmanship holds up, and simple steps to protect your pair.
Quick answer
Yes, you can wear suede sneakers in light rain, but suede is not waterproof. The real myth is that any moisture instantly ruins suede. With proper care and a quality build like Diemme's Marostica Low, suede can handle occasional wet weather.
Why the myth persists
Suede is made from the underside of leather, which has a napped texture that absorbs water more readily than smooth leather. This has led to the belief that suede sneakers are a no-go in any wet condition. In reality, suede can get wet without being destroyed, as long as you dry it properly and avoid soaking.
How Diemme's construction changes the equation
Diemme's Marostica Low sneakers are hand-crafted in Italian leather in the Diemme factory in Veneto. The design includes a delicately stitched rubber rand that subtly connects the soft leather upper with the sturdy rubber sole. This rubber rand provides a barrier that helps keep moisture from seeping into the upper from the sole, adding a layer of practical protection that many suede sneakers lack.
The verdicts
- Claim: Suede sneakers are ruined by any water: Verdict: False. Suede can get wet and still look great if dried slowly at room temperature away from direct heat. The real damage comes from improper drying or prolonged soaking. Blot wet suede with a clean cloth and let it air dry naturally. Never use a hair dryer or radiator.
- Claim: Suede is waterproof: Verdict: False. Suede is not waterproof, but it is water-resistant to a degree. A quality suede sneaker like the Marostica Low has a rubber rand and robust Italian-made sole that help keep water out during short exposure. For heavy rain, apply a suede protector spray before wearing. Reapply every few weeks during wet seasons.
- Claim: You can't wear suede sneakers in rain at all: Verdict: False with nuance. You can wear them in light rain or drizzle. Avoid puddles and heavy downpours. The Italian-made construction of Diemme's Marostica Low gives you more confidence than a budget suede sneaker. Check the forecast. If heavy rain is expected, choose a different pair or plan to dry your sneakers properly afterward.
Product facts
- Marostica Low Cielo Suede M: The Marostica Low features a delicately stitched rubber rand connecting the suede upper with the rubber sole. That rubber rand acts as a moisture barrier, helping the sneaker resist water seeping in from the sole during light rain.
Marostica Low Cielo Suede M
